Christiana Figueres, Friend of the Rainforest

Gr 1-3–This book introduces young readers to Christina Figueres, who became known as a “friend of the rainforest” because of the work she did as a diplomat and an environmental activist. How did this happen? What sparked her concern? While this book ­covers Figueres’s path and career rapidly, it does show that it took both time and dedication. Readers follow her from her delight in the rainforests of Costa Rica, where she grew up, through her realization that animals were endangered due to deforestation and pollution, and finally to her decision to become involved in saving the environment. What emerges for readers is that above all, Figueres is an optimist, always believing that positive change is possible and that the climate could be restored. She is also a careful listener and a convincing speaker. Author and illustrator jointly bring the setting to life. Engle’s descriptive writing portrays the rainforest of the activist’s childhood as a “wild green forest, where she saw shimmering quetzal birds, [and] rainbow-hued toucans.” The illustrations of the environment are colorful and detailed. Back matter includes a biographical note with more information about Figueres, a glossary, a discussion of how readers might be inspired to take action, and an author’s note.